Last night, Baker performed with the Louisville Youth Choir in their first official concert since she joined. It was a struggle, but I didn’t spill any tears. So proud!
It got me thinking about success. One hundred talented kids from all walks of life: some were certainly more talented than others, but they could all sing well or they wouldn’t have made it into the choir. Is that what it takes to succeed? Talent?
Which of those kids will give up singing in a few years because of soccer, boys, homework or boredom? Which will continue on to become music teachers and community theater performers? And which, if any, will become a Broadway star or the next Taylor Swift? If any do, what will push them into the spotlight? Talent? Drive? An all-consuming passion? Pushy parents?
Who knows. I’m sure there are more studies than I’d ever care to read about what makes one person successful and another a Zippy Mart cashier.
Right now, for Baker, the passion is enough. She just dearly loves to sing and is naturally drawn to any opportunity where she can sing or perform. It’s not that she’s driven to succeed or to be the best, she just genuinely loves it. Like my husband genuinely loves his music and performing, and my son genuinely loves drawing. Such an artistic family!
I genuinely love writing and chardonnay. Maybe I should strive to be the best chardonnay drinker in the county? Such high ambitions.